Anglican Primate to Federal Government: Request International Assistance If Unable to End the Killings

ABUJA — The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has urged the Federal Government to seek international assistance if it cannot curb the escalating killings, kidnappings, and violence across the nation.

He warned that Nigeria’s security crisis has reached a breaking point and can no longer be ignored. Ndukuba made the call during the consecration of fifteen new bishops in Abuja, where he spoke on the growing insecurity and moral decline in the country.

His remarks followed recent concerns expressed by world leaders over the persistent attacks on Christians and the increasing threats to religious freedom in Nigeria.

“The persecution of Christians and the violence happening in this country are undeniable,” Ndukuba stated.

He lamented the continued abduction of clergymen, disclosing that several pastors and their families remain in captivity without any resolution.

“As I speak, some of our pastors have been kidnapped along with their families from their churches, and they have yet to be released. If the authorities cannot handle the situation, it is only right for them to seek help,” he said.

The Primate also expressed concern over the moral decay among young people, emphasizing that the character of today’s youth will determine the nation’s future.

He called on parents to instill discipline and godly values in their children, adding that Nigeria’s youth possess the intelligence and creativity to overcome present challenges.

“As a church, we continue to pray for our young people, invest in them, and nurture them. That is why we established the ‘Joshua Generation’ mission—to raise a generation that stands firm in faith and purpose,” he explained.

Ndukuba expressed optimism that Nigerian youths, if properly guided, would rise above the difficulties surrounding them and fulfill their divine potential.

“We believe they will stand strong, take up their responsibilities, and by faith, conquer their promised land,” he added.

Speaking on the newly consecrated bishops, the Primate urged them to embrace patience, sacrifice, and steadfastness in their service, reminding them that leadership in the church requires humility and endurance.

“This is a sacred calling,” he said. “When Jesus calls us to follow Him, He calls us to die to self, take up our cross, and remain faithful to His mission.”

He prayed that God would strengthen the bishops in their new roles, guiding them to teach the Word faithfully and serve as true shepherds of the flock.

“My prayer is that He who has called them will sustain them, lead them through life, and make them instruments in His hands to feed the flock, proclaim the gospel, and uphold the truth boldly and faithfully,” Ndukuba concluded.

The newly consecrated bishops include: Ven. Samuel O. Ogunmiluyi (Irele Ese-Odo), Ven. Francis O. Bankole (Ekiti South), Ven. Boma P. Briggs (Kalabari), Ven. Ebenezer A. Adewole (Lagos South West), and Ven. Benjamin E. Idume (Ozoro).

Others are Ven. Olubode A. Otenaike (Idanre), Ven. David Michson (Ikom), Ven. Gershinen P. Dajur (Keffi-Karshi), Ven. Luka B. Allu (Nasarawa), Ven. Ifeanyi V. Akunna (Ogoja), Ven. Ebenezer Familoni (Oyo South), Ven. Solomon Adewumi (Oyun), Rev. Canon Rika G. Ibrahim (Takum), and Ven. Ayuba Kanta (Zuru).